Each child’s bowel movements are unique and vital for their health. While some children may have multiple bowel movements a day, others may skip a day.

To promote healthy bowel habits in your child, you can:

• Include whole grains, fruits, and vegetables in their diet and ensure they drink an adequate amount of water daily.
• Encourage physical activity throughout the day.
• Teach them not to resist the urge to have a bowel movement.
• Explain that regular bowel movements are normal and crucial for good health.
• Avoid using negative terms like “dirty” or “stinky” as it may make your child self-conscious about using the toilet.

The most common issues related to bowel movements are constipation and diarrhea.

What are symptoms of constipation?

Constipation occurs when bowel movements are infrequent, hard, dry, or unusually large for your child.

It may result in stomach pain and the presence of bright red blood on the surface of hard stool.

If your child is constipated, they may experience pain while attempting to have a bowel movement.

What causes constipation?

• A diet low in fiber that lacks whole grains, fruits, and vegetables.
• Not drinking enough water leading to dehydration.
• Lack of physical activity or exercise.
• Ignoring the urge to have a bowel movement.
• Side effects of certain medications.
• Changes in routine or schedule, such as traveling.
• Stress or anxiety.

What can I do if my child is constipated?

• Establish a regular daily routine for your child to use the toilet.
• Offer foods rich in fiber such as whole grain bread, fruits, vegetables, and legumes.
• Provide a firm support for your child’s feet and a toilet reducer ring while having a bowel movement to facilitate easier pushing.
• Encourage your child to drink plenty of water throughout the day to help soften their stools.
• Include physical activity in your child’s daily routine to help promote regular bowel movements.
• Avoid giving your child foods that can contribute to constipation, such as processed foods and dairy products.
• If these measures do not help, consult your child’s healthcare provider for further advice and possible treatment options.

What are symptoms of diarrhea?

• More frequent bowel movements with watery stool than usual.

What causes acute diarrhea?

Diarrhea is often caused by viruses like rotavirus, which can spread easily among children.

To prevent severe diarrhea, consider vaccinating your infant against rotavirus and practicing good hand hygiene.

What can I do if my child has diarrhea?

Children experiencing diarrhea may lose fluids rapidly, so it’s important to offer food and drinks regularly. Oral rehydration solution can help maintain their hydration levels.

What are some causes of chronic diarrhea?

Chronic diarrhea lasting more than 14 days can be attributed to toddler’s diarrhea in children.

What is toddler’s diarrhea?

Toddler’s diarrhea typically occurs between 6 and 30 months and resolves by the age of 5. It may be caused by fast-moving food in the colon or specific dietary habits.

If your toddler frequently has loose, watery stools:

• Avoid offering juice and provide water instead.
• Incorporate more fiber-rich foods into their diet.

If the diarrhea persists, consult your doctor.

If your child is struggling to have bowel movements, they may be experiencing constipation.

Constipation can manifest differently in each child, including the passing of large or painful stools, small and hard poops, or difficulty during defecation.

Encopresis could be a symptom of constipation, potentially leading to issues with bowel control due to chronic constipation.

It’s crucial to encourage and support children dealing with constipation, as it is often treatable and functional.

Does stuck mean sick?

Functional constipation is the most common type in children, typically not associated with an underlying medical condition. Treating functional constipation can help improve gastrointestinal function.

Unstuck myth #1

Functional constipation in children is usually triggered by various factors rather than medical conditions. Some common triggers include dietary factors, lack of physical activity, and stress.

It is important for parents to be aware of these triggers and to work with healthcare professionals to develop a comprehensive treatment plan for managing functional constipation in children.

Symptoms of stuck

Other signs of chronic constipation in children may include infrequent bowel movements, fecal accidents, pain during defecation, etc.

Unstuck myth #2

Even regular but small bowel movements can indicate constipation in kids.

The cycle of being stuck

Feeling stuck is a common experience that many people go through at some point in their lives. It’s that feeling of being stagnant, unable to move forward or make progress. The cycle of being stuck can be frustrating and overwhelming, but it’s important to remember that it is temporary and there are ways to break free.

One way to break the cycle of being stuck is to take a step back and reassess the situation. What is holding you back? Is it fear, self-doubt, or external circumstances? By identifying the root cause of feeling stuck, you can begin to address it and make changes to move forward.

Another helpful strategy is to set small, achievable goals for yourself. By breaking down your larger goals into smaller, more manageable tasks, you can create momentum and build confidence as you make progress. Celebrate each small victory along the way as you work towards your bigger goals.

It’s also important to reach out for support during times of feeling stuck. Whether it’s talking to a friend, family member, or therapist, having someone to listen and provide perspective can be incredibly helpful. Remember, you are not alone in feeling stuck, and seeking help is a sign of strength, not weakness.

Finally, don’t be afraid to try something new or make a change. Sometimes, breaking out of the cycle of being stuck requires stepping outside of your comfort zone and taking a leap of faith. Embrace the unknown and trust that you have the strength and resilience to navigate through any challenges that come your way.

Remember, feeling stuck is a temporary state, and with perseverance, patience, and a willingness to make changes, you can break free from the cycle and move forward towards a brighter future.

Being stuck-sensitive

It’s common to feel anxious about bodily functions. Children need support to overcome challenges related to constipation, not shame.

Constipation can affect children at any age, especially during significant life changes.

It’s important for parents and caregivers to be understanding and patient when helping children with constipation. Encouraging a healthy diet rich in fiber, plenty of water intake, and regular physical activity can help prevent and alleviate constipation.

In some cases, medical intervention may be necessary, so it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider if constipation persists or becomes severe.

Unstuck glossary

Explore terms associated with bowel movements and constipation.

Additional tips for managing constipation in children:

1. Balanced diet: Ensure that your child’s diet includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and legumes to promote regular bowel movements.

2. Encourage water intake: Drinking an adequate amount of water is essential for proper digestion and can help prevent constipation.

3. Regular exercise: Physical activity can stimulate the bowels and help keep the digestive system healthy.

4. Toilet training: Teach your child proper toileting habits, including sitting on the toilet for a few minutes after meals to encourage bowel movements.

5. Consult a healthcare provider: If constipation persists despite dietary changes and lifestyle modifications, seek guidance from a healthcare professional for further evaluation and treatment options.

Still stuck?

If home remedies and consultations have not provided relief, consider BRICK Clinic’s comprehensive approach to constipation care.

The Clinic at Children’s Mercy is designed for children:

• 3 years and above
• Ready for potty training

If your child meets the criteria, your pediatrician can refer them to the Clinic for evaluation and a treatment plan.

Initial consultations last for 1 hour, with follow-ups scheduled every 1 to 3 months as required.

Let’s tackle constipation together!

Disclaimer: Consult a healthcare provider for personalized guidance. This information is not a substitute for professional medical advice.

Constipation is a common issue affecting 30-35% of children. Dr. Granger shares the signs to watch for and remedies for kids.

Constipation in Kids

The reasons for constipation can vary, including infrequent, hard, and painful bowel movements. Signs of constipation may include:

• Less than two bowel movements per week
• Hard, painful stools
• Blood in stool or on wiping
• Abdominal pain post meals
• Anxiety related to using the toilet
• Reduced appetite

Home Remedies for Constipation in Kids

For constipated children, Dr. Granger recommends safe home remedies:

• Abdominal massage: Massaging and leg cycling can aid in passing stools.
• Natural laxatives: Offering prunes, apples, and pears with water can soften stools.
• Increasing water intake: Keeping children hydrated can ease bowel movements.
• Enhancing fiber intake: Providing a diet rich in fiber along with sufficient water can promote regularity.

• Reduce dairy consumption. Excessive dairy intake, especially milk, can lead to constipation due to sensitivity to cow’s milk proteins. Other dairy products like cheese can also cause constipation due to low fiber content.
• Facilitate stress-free bathroom breaks. To encourage good bowel habits, ensure children have proper support and uninterrupted time during bathroom breaks. Consider rewarding successful bowel movements.

Immediate relief for constipation may take time and varies for each child, according to Dr. Granger.

Additional Tips for Relieving Constipation in Kids:

• Encourage physical activity: Regular exercise can help stimulate bowel movements.
• Include probiotic-rich foods: Yogurt and other probiotic foods can promote healthy digestion.
• Avoid processed foods: Processed foods high in sugar and low in fiber can contribute to constipation.
• Consult a pediatrician: If home remedies do not provide relief, it is important to seek medical advice.

How to Relieve Constipation in Kids

Before using products or medications for constipation, consult with your child’s healthcare provider. Dr. Granger suggests considering the following options:

• Probiotics. Helpful in maintaining gut bacteria, especially during antibiotic use. Limited research supports probiotics for constipation treatment.
• Suppositories and enemas. These options may aid in stimulating bowel movements but should be used cautiously due to potential discomfort and risks of rectal trauma.
• MiraLAX. MiraLAX is recommended for children over one year old as an effective solution for constipation, as it helps bring fluid back to the stool, making passage easier. Make sure to consult a doctor before giving it to your child.

When to Call a Doctor about Constipation in Kids

If your child shows any worrying symptoms, Dr. Granger recommends seeking medical help immediately.